The purpose of the TLEC is to unite law enforcement labor organizations on legislative, labor and training issues that impact the lives of working law enforcement officers and their families. Now that the organization has five members, it represents the interests of over 35,000 law enforcement officers throughout Texas. According to Robert Goerlitz, HCDO Presdient, “Getting law enforcement on the same page for goals across the state to work collectively has been a massive task for years. Our hope and goal for the future is for all law enforcement to come together as one to battle against the special interest groups who seek to diminish the rights and benefits of peace officers across the state.” He stated, “To my knowledge, there has never before been a group like this assembled. It has been long overdue and the Harris County Deputies’ Organization looks forward to obtaining benefits denied to county law enforcement across the state for years and advancing issues that affect us in the state legislature.”

The founding organizations are very proud to welcome DPSOA and HCDO into TLEC. “We’re so glad they understand that working together is in everyone’s best interest,” said Josh Thurlkill, TMPA President and TLEC Chairman. “Both DPSOA and HCDO are strong organizations who work hard for their members, having them as a part of TLEC makes us all stronger and louder as we stand united for the rights of law enforcement officers,” said Thurlkill. Members of the TLEC maintain their individual autonomy, but come together to work on legislative, labor and training issues to increase their influence and authority.

The Texas Law Enforcement Council (TLEC) unites various law enforcement labor groups throughout the state so they can work together to further common goals and interests. The TLEC was founded by the Dallas Police Association (DPA), Houston Police Officers’ Union (HPOU) and TMPA in 2013. TLEC membership was extended to the Harris County Deputies’ Organization (HCDO) and the Department of Public Safety Officers’ Association (DPSOA) in 2014. Currently the TLEC represents the interests of over 35,000 law enforcement officers.